Malva moschata f. alba
white musk mallow
An erect woody-based perennial to 90cm tall, with slightly musk-scented, rounded basal and deeply fingered stem-leaves. Pure white, bowl-shaped flowers up to 6cm wide, are borne in the upper leaf axils in summer and early autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | White | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Malva can be annuals, biennials or perennials, with rounded, often palmately lobed leaves and 5-petalled, open funnel-shaped flowers in the leaf axils or in terminal racemes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in light, moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun; may need support if grown in richer soils (see staking perennials). Shelter from cold winds in areas prone to frost
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by softwood cuttings from stems or basal shoots in early summer. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to stem rot, a rust, and soil-borne fungal diseases
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